violent

The word “violent” means using or involving physical force meant to hurt or kill. In plain terms, involving physical force to hurt someone, or (for weather, emotion, etc.) extremely intense.

“Violent” is pronounced VEYE-uh-luhnt (/ˈvaɪ.ə.lənt/ in IPA).

Here is “violent” used in a sentence: “The neighbourhood had seen a rise in violent crime.”

The opposite of “violent” — its antonyms — is peaceful.

“Violent” is an adjective.

The word “violent” comes from Latin. From Latin violentus, from vīs, "strength, force.".

“Violent” is a fairly common word in modern English, usually learned at around the A2 level.

“Violent” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: using or involving physical force meant to hurt or kill.

Aggressive describes forceful, hostile, or pushy behaviour and intent, which may never become physical. Violent means actually using physical force meant to hurt or kill. An aggressive person may shout and threaten; a violent one strikes or attacks. Aggression is the hostile drive; violence is the harmful physical act that can follow.

Yes. Beyond physical attacks, 'violent' describes any intense, uncontrolled force: a violent storm, a violent explosion, a violent argument, or a violent reaction. In these uses it means sudden and extreme rather than literally intending harm. The common thread is powerful, forceful energy that feels dangerous or destructive.

Violent behaviour involves physical force intended to injure, such as hitting, kicking, assault, or armed attack. It differs from anger or raised voices, which become violence only when they turn into physical harm. The defining feature is the use of force against a person, animal, or property to cause damage.

The main opposites are peaceful, gentle, and nonviolent, describing actions or people that avoid physical force and harm. Calm and mild work when contrasting with the intensity of a violent storm or reaction. Which opposite fits depends on whether you mean physical harm or sheer force and intensity.